You can’t learn if you’re hungry. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants to visit in Orlando, Florida while attending FETC. Buen provecho!
For the first time in three years, I will NOT be hosting a Food Tour. I apologize but I could not get a sponsor to offset the cost for participants.
If you know me, you KNOW I’m all about good food so just because I’m not doing a food tour doesn’t mean I won’t share my favorite places to eat. I’ve created a list and Google Map with some of my favorite places to eat in Orlando, Florida. This way, you know where to eat while attending FETC from a certified foodie. Some of these places are in Downtown and require an Uber but split that with a friend and it all pays off. Check them out for yourself. Try to stay away from the chain restaurants while in the beautiful city of Orlando.
This place has the BEST pastries in town. My favorite is the quesito con guayaba which is a pastry filled with cream cheese and guava paste. Pair that with a good Columbian coffee and you’re set for a few hours! You also have to try their homemade Columbian hot chocolate. It might be out of the way, but it’s worth it!
I’ve had Philly steaks in Philadelphia and these are THE CLOSEST to those. They have a variety to choose from but my favorites are the classic and the buffalo chicken. Pair that with the tater tots and it’s a WRAP! Good food that sticks to the ribs.
This is good, clean food here. Their chicken skewers and spicy hummus are off the chain! Fresh ingredients are the key to their dishes. I usually order the Greek salad with a variety of hummus, pita bread, chicken, and top it off with the Baklava ice cream. Yes, I said it… Baklava ICE CREAM! Must try!
Classic Puerto Rican Food. My go-to dish is the shrimp Mofongo and Arroz con Gandules. It’s mashed up plantains topped with garlic shrimp, a side of Puerto Rican rice and pigeon peas. Trust me… if you visit Pal Campo, this dish is a must.
REALLY good Middle Eastern food with a very chill vibe. I order the Kofta Kabab. It’s a handmade kabab made with lamb, spices, vegetables, and flavor. I pair that with a side of vegetables and good naan after a day at FETC. I also cannot resist their homemade Baklava. It’s just too good to pass up.
This is just good, thin crust New York style pizza in Orlando, Florida. I went there a few years ago because I was hungry and this place isn’t too far from the convention center. I fell in love with it. They had a two cheese slice special that I just couldn’t pass up. Not only was it affordable, it was REALLY good. A must try when at FETC.
Planning your FETC schedule? Explore interactive sessions on AI, edtech, and engagement designed to leave you inspired, energized, and ready to try something new.
Conferences should feel energizing, not exhausting. At FETC this year, I’m focusing on sessions that invite conversation, creativity, and collaboration. These sessions will still deliver practical tools and strategies you can use right away. Here’s a breakdown of the sessions I’ll be leading and what you can expect from each one. If we happen to cross paths or you decide to stop in at one of my sessions, please say “hi”. Before we get into the sessions, I have a bit of bad news for this year’s FETC.
For the first time in three years, I will NOT be hosting a Food Tour. I apologize but I could not get a sponsor to offset the cost for participants. Click Here to view some of my favorite places to eat in Orlando.
Monday January 12th
Live Podcasting With Guests
I’ve partnered with Teq to bring you incredible interviews with guests while at FETC 2026. These will be released on my show, The EdTech Bites Podcast. These episodes will be released throughout the next few months and are a great way to get your learning on while walking, driving, or cooking up experiences in the classroom or kitchen. Make sure you’re subscribed using the buttons below.
FETC Meet The Author Experience | 11:00am -11:45am Expo Hall
Come get an autographed copy of my book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom” at the Meet The Author Experience booth in the Expo Hall. I’ll be there with some other authors from the X-Factor EDU team spreading the word about our writing experience and how our books can help meet your needs.
Are You Smarter Than A Food Expert w/ Kira Learning | 12:30pm-1:30pm Kira Booth #2805
I’m teaming up with Kira for a live trivia showdown at FETC, but with a twist: you’ll be trying to stump me. We’ll run three rounds, and players will use Kira’s ChatPods to create food-themed trivia questions. Spots to play are limited, so if you want to be guaranteed a seat, sign up using the form below. You’re still welcome to watch and cheer even if you don’t play.
AI And EdTech SuperShare: Tools and Tips To Supercharge Your Teaching | 3:00pm-3:45pm MEGA3
This is an awesome session I’m presenting with Vicki Davis, Jaime Donally, Rachelle, Dené Poth, and Victoria Thompson.
Ready to ignite your classroom with AI and edtech tools that truly make a difference? This fast-paced, high-energy panel brings together innovative educators who use these tools daily to boost engagement, personalize learning, and support every student. You’ll explore classroom-tested solutions across all subjects and grade levels—from AI-powered platforms that simplify differentiation to immersive technologies that turn abstract concepts into unforgettable experiences. This isn’t a sit-and-listen session. Expect rapid-fire demonstrations, real student work, and practical strategies you can implement immediately. Presenters will spotlight tools with strong accessibility features, budget-friendly options, and scalable solutions for any learning environment. You’ll leave with a curated toolkit of top apps and resources, QR codes for instant access, and a clear action plan for integrating AI without overwhelming yourself or your students. If you want ideas you can use Monday morning—and inspiration that lasts all year—this is the session you can’t miss.
Tuesday January 13th
Book Signing | 11:30am-12:30pm K12 Learning Booth #2640
I’ll be with my X-Factor EDU crew giving out autographed copies of our books. There are books for coaches, leadership, teachers… basically anyone in education. Make sure you stop by, get an autographed copy of a book of your choice, take some pics, and smile along with us at the K12 Learning booth.
Snorkl Your Way To Smarter Insights | 3:00pm-3:45pm Table 10
Discover how Snorkl transforms student feedback into actionable insights. This session will explore how AI-powered feedback enhances engagement, supports personalized learning, and streamlines teacher workflows. Walk away with practical strategies to implement Snorkl in your classroom for deeper student understanding and improved outcomes.
It’s been a month since the FETC 2025 Conference in Orlando, Florida. It was a whirlwind of energy, learning, and connection. Over the course of several packed days, I presented sessions, signed books, hosted a Walking Food Tour with Lumio, recorded podcasts, and connected with educators and edtech changemakers. What I left with is a message I hope resonates with educators everywhere: There is no digital substitute for in-person conversations and experiences. Here’s a glimpse of my FETC journey, highlighting why events like these are invaluable for educators.
Presenting Sessions: Sharing Practical Solutions with Educators
One of the most rewarding parts of FETC is sharing knowledge and actionable tools with educators. I had the opportunity to present sessions on student podcasting and how instructional coaches can use Notion to streamline their workflows and boost productivity. Each session was met with thoughtful discussions, questions, and those powerful lightbulb moments when you can see the audience connect with a new idea. At the Class Companion booth, I delivered another presentation showcasing how teachers can gain quick insights into student writing through innovative AI assisted edtech solutions. Being on stage or at a booth while engaging directly with fellow educators reaffirms that technology isn’t the heart of education—it’s the people who leverage it to make learning meaningful.
Book Signing at the Meet The Author Experience Booth: A Full-Circle Moment
X-Factor EDU (AKA Matthew Joseph) made it possible for me to give away signed copies of my book at the expo hall Meet The Author Experience booth, a humbling and exciting experience. What made this moment even more powerful was reflecting on the journey. Last year, I stood in the expo hall as a first-time author, signing my very first copy, just a week after my book release. Returning this year to see educators excited to grab a signed copy felt like a full-circle moment—one rooted in growth, gratitude, and a deeper connection to the educators who inspire me daily. Something about giving someone the end result of hard work and dedication fills my heart and makes me realize how blessed I am to have had this experience.
FETC 2024 giving away my first ever autographed copy of my book.
FETC 2025…One year later and it feels just as good!
The EdTech Bites Walking Food Tour: Dessert First, Connections Always
Sponsored by Lumio, the EdTech Bites Walking Food Tour in downtown Orlando brought educators together for an unforgettable culinary adventure. We kicked off the evening with authentic Colombian desserts, hot chocolate, and coffee at Mecatos Bakery, followed by stops at Loading Zone Philly Steaks and The Great Greek Mediterranean Kitchen. Our food tour included indulgent Philly cheesesteaks, crispy fries, flavorful chicken skewers, and light Mediterranean fare to end the night. But this tour wasn’t just about food—it was about creating memories. Breaking bread with educators is more than sharing a meal; it’s a way to build connections, share stories, and inspire collaboration.
MagicSchool AI Pickleball Social: Networking Through Fun
After the food tour, I hit the court at the MagicSchool AI pickleball social event. The evening wasn’t just about burning off calories—it was about working up laughter, making new friends, and strengthening bonds within the edtech community. Seeing familiar faces and catching up with fellow educators in a setting outside the conference walls showed me how important it is to blend work and play. The energy was infectious, and it served as a reminder that collaboration is most powerful when fueled by genuine connections and shared experiences.
Podcasting At FETC: Powerful Stories from Educators
One of the highlights of FETC for me was recording 10 podcast episodes and releasing those episodes in 10 days, thanks to the support of Class Companion. There’s something special about sitting across from someone, face to face, and capturing their authentic story. I connected with incredible educators to discuss topics ranging from AI ethics in education and edtech pet peeves to STEM activities with Legos and personalized learning. One conversation that stood out was with a first-time conference attendee, Roy Francis. As I listened to his excitement, I remembered being in his shoes years ago, wide-eyed and ready to soak it all in. Now, I was on the other side, sharing advice and encouraging him to lean into the experience.
The conversations we had weren’t just interviews—they were connections that inspired deeper reflection and fresh ideas. In-person podcasting taps into that natural flow of conversation that digital spaces can’t replicate. Click on the images below to peep the full episode!
The Heart of FETC: Human Connection
Throughout the conference, I had countless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and create—whether it was seeing familiar faces in the crowd during sessions, talking to educators at vendor booths, or simply sharing a meal. The truth is, no tool, no AI chatbot, and no email can replicate the power of a face-to-face conversation.
Social media and virtual meetings are important, but the magic happens when we come together in person. We’re reminded that behind every edtech solution, every strategy, and every tool is a teacher with a story, a challenge, and a dream.
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Reflections and Gratitude
As I wrap up this reflection, I feel immense gratitude for the people and moments that shaped my FETC experience. From presenting and signing books to breaking bread and recording meaningful conversations, I left Orlando with a full heart and a renewed sense of purpose. The biggest takeaway from this conference is one I hope educators everywhere hold onto: Human connection is at the core of what we do.
Whether you’re teaching, coaching, or presenting, remember that the relationships we build in real life will always be the most impactful part of our work. So the next time you see an opportunity to attend a conference, sign up, show up, and connect. The rewards will be far greater than any tool or resource you bring home. Check out the recap video below. Buen provecho!
Learn how the EduGuardians movement began and why these passionate educators are dedicated to supporting and inspiring teachers everywhere.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
What happens when a group of passionate educators comes together to spark change? In this episode, I sit down with Larisa Black, Heather Brown, Farmer Faubs, and Christie Cloud, the four of the founding members of the EduGuardians. We discuss how their movement started, why they’re so dedicated to supporting educators, and the driving force behind their mission. From inspiration to action, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and ready to make an impact in your own educational community.
EduGuardians strive to lead in educational technology, empowering educators to connect, share ideas, and build community. Our mission is to utilize edtech for impactful and engaging student learning experiences. We foster a dynamic, collaborative network for educators to innovate, grow, and inspire, enhancing education for all students.
Explore how pedagogy meets AI with Kristin and Joe Merrill. In this episode, we discuss their latest book, blending classic teaching strategies with innovative interACTIVE techniques to engage today’s learners.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
How do we blend tried-and-true teaching strategies with cutting-edge AI? In this episode, I chat with the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Kristin and Joe Merrill AKA Kroe, about their latest book The InterACTIVE Class: Creation in a World of AI: Empowering Educators to Inspire Creativity and Innovation in an AI-Driven Classroom. They share timeless teaching strategies while incorporating AI—all through their signature interACTIVE approach. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a teaching purist, this episode will show you how to strike the perfect balance between innovation and effective instruction.
Kristin and Joe are teachers and authors of the InterACTIVE Class series. Together, they put a spin on traditional strategies by infusing EdTech with learning that meets the needs of all students.
Tune in to my chat with Dan Thomas to discover how Legos can boost creativity, STEM skills, and collaboration in the classroom—turning “toys” into powerful learning tools for students of all ages.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
Are Legos just toys, or are they powerful tools for learning? In this inspiring episode, I chat with Dan Thomas, a middle school STEM teacher known for using Legos to spark creativity and enhance student learning. We explore how these colorful bricks encourage Creativity, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, and Communication—all while making learning fun! Whether you’re a Lego enthusiast or a skeptic, you’ll discover how they can transform your classroom into a hands-on, engaging learning environment. Buen provecho!
Dan is a STEM teacher from Jamestown NY which is south of Buffalo. He has been teaching for 32 years at the same school that he graduated from. He is passionate about STEM Topics, PBL and play in the classroom. His goal is for students to understand and learn how to apply their knowledge and skills because that is where the true learning happens.
Join Katie Fielding, Stevie Frank, and I as we dive into our biggest edtech pet peeves—the good, the bad, and the cringe-worthy—plus tips to improve classroom technology use.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
What’s driving you (and your students) crazy in the world of edtech? In this fun and honest episode, I sit down with Katie Fielding and Stevie Frank to unpack our biggest edtech pet peeves. We discuss the amazing innovations happening in classrooms, but also the frustrating trends and missteps that make us cringe. From tech overload to pointless tools, we’re sharing it all—plus tips on how to make edtech work for you, not against you! Buen provecho!
Katie Fielding is an Accessibility Advocate, ISTE Certified Trainer, and the Educational Content Manager at Book Creator. She has 20 years of public school experience. She champions digital accessibility, creativity, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in classrooms. Specializing in technology and STEM integration, Katie creates interdisciplinary instructional experiences and shares her expertise through presentations and workshops. Recognized as VSTE Coach of the Year in 2018 and a featured voice at ISTELive 2024, she holds multiple certifications, including ISTE, Google Innovator, and Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert. Outside work, she enjoys cheese and exploring Scandinavia.
Stevie Frank (she/her) is a Digital Learning Coach at her school in Zionsville, Indiana. Stevie has 15 years of education background and earned her master’s degree in Literacy Education. She’s a part of Ed Tech Magazine’s top 30 K-12 Influencers to follow for 2023. When she’s not learning to become an educator for ALL students, she’s marking off travels with her family.
Struggling with teacher burnout? In this episode, Brittany Blackwell shares strategies to reignite your passion and balance mind, body, and soul in teaching.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
Are you feeling the weight of burnout or wondering how to rekindle your love for teaching? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Brittany Blackwell, an educator dedicated to helping teachers nourish their mind, body, and soul. She shares her powerful story of learning to pivot when faced with exhaustion, offering practical strategies to reignite your passion and embrace teaching with renewed energy. She also hosts The Resilient Teacher Podcast where she gives teachers ways to pivot from burnout to building resiliency to ensure they are at their best for their students. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that will remind you why you fell in love with teaching in the first place! Buen provecho!
Brittany Blackwell, M.Ed., is an an award winning special educator and teacher burnout & sustainability strategist from South Carolina. With over thirteen years of experience in elementary and middle school classrooms, Brittany has become an expert in addressing teacher burnout. She is also the host of the popular podcast “The Resilient Teacher Podcast”.
Brittany is passionate about empowering teachers and educational leaders to prioritize their mental health. She helps them develop personalized sustainability and burnout recovery plans, reducing stress and creating the fulfilling lives they’ve always dreamed of. Through her digital approach, which includes automation, digital planning, vision planning, and sustainable strategies, Brittany has reached thousands of educators worldwide.
You may know Brittany as “MsPrincessTeach” on TikTok, where her social media following grew through her fast-paced, lighthearted tutorials and relatable real-life experiences. She offers teachers actionable strategies, personalized coaching, mindset shifting, and digital resources to create their own Individualized Burnout Recovery Plan. By reducing stress and automating mundane tasks, Brittany enables educators to prevent burnout and maximize fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
In this episode, Jess Boyce (Josh’s wife) shares why building relationships is key to classroom success and offers practical tips for fostering meaningful student connections.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
What’s the secret to a thriving classroom? In this episode, we explore the power of building strong relationships with students before diving into content. Join me and Jess Boyce, yes…Jess from Flip (RIP, Flip) as we discuss why connections matter, how they impact learning, and practical ways to foster meaningful relationships in your classroom. From simple daily practices to transformative mindset shifts, this episode is packed with ideas to help you create a more connected and engaged learning environment. Buen Provecho!
In this episode, Michelle Manning shares how personalized learning transforms classrooms, offering practical strategies and examples to meet every student’s unique needs.
*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here!
What does personalized learning really look like in today’s classrooms? In this episode, I’m joined by Michelle Manning, who shares her insights on the transformative power of personalized learning. She breaks down what personalized learning means, why it’s essential for student success, and how she helps teachers bring it to life in their classrooms. From practical tips to real-world examples, Michelle offers actionable strategies to create learning experiences tailored to every student’s unique needs.
Michelle Manning is an Instructional Technology Integration Specialist and has worked in education for over 30 years. She is passionate about leveraging technology to amplify and enhance the curriculum to make lessons accessible for all students in the classroom to learn and show what they know! Michelle emphasizes personalized learning, professional development, and the integration of innovative tools and strategies in the classroom. Her work often involves providing training and support for teachers to utilize technology in ways that meet diverse learner needs. Michelle also loves supporting teachers helping them utilize technology as their digital co-teacher to save time and transform their classrooms.
